Cold treatment in Huntingdon.
A cold is usually mild and clears by itself within a week or two. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can advise on easing your symptoms and, where suitable, supply NHS treatment — no GP referral required.
What is a cold?
A common cold is a mild infection caused by a virus that affects the nose and throat. It can make you feel unwell, but most people recover within about 1–2 weeks.
Colds are different from flu, which often comes on more suddenly and can cause more severe symptoms.
No appointment needed — come in during opening hours and ask for the pharmacist.
Prefer a set time? Call and we'll book you in with the pharmacist.
Open Mon–Fri 08:45–18:00 (closed 13:00–14:00).
Common signs and symptoms
Symptoms often develop gradually over 2–3 days. A cough can last longer than the other symptoms.
- A blocked or runny nose
- Sneezing
- A sore throat
- A cough
- Feeling tired or generally unwell
- A mild headache or mild aches
- Sometimes a raised temperature
What causes a cold?
Colds are caused by viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses. Antibiotics do not work against these viruses.
When an infected person coughs or sneezes, virus-containing particles can spread to other people.
A person may pick up the virus from contaminated hands or surfaces and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth.
Colds spread easily in homes, schools, workplaces and other crowded places, particularly when people spend more time indoors.
Being cold or going outside with wet hair does not directly cause a cold. You need to be exposed to a virus to become infected.
How can it be prevented?
It is not always possible to prevent a cold, but good hygiene and reducing exposure to viruses can lower the risk of catching or spreading one.
Use soap and water, particularly after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, throw it away promptly and wash your hands afterwards.
Clean shared surfaces and avoid sharing items such as cups and towels with someone who is unwell.
Let fresh air into indoor spaces where possible, particularly when spending time with other people.
Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, stay active and avoid smoking. These habits support overall health, although they cannot guarantee protection from colds.
When should someone seek medical help?
Most colds improve within 1–2 weeks. However, some symptoms require further assessment.
Contact NHS 111 or seek urgent medical advice
Seek prompt medical assessment if the person has:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- A feeling of being very unwell
- Symptoms that are worsening significantly
Seek emergency help
Call 999 if someone has:
- Severe difficulty breathing
- A collapse
- Other signs of a life-threatening emergency
Arrange a GP appointment
Seek advice from your GP if:
- Symptoms have not improved after 10 days
- A fever lasts more than 3 days
- A cough lasts more than 3 weeks
- Symptoms occur in someone with a weakened immune system or a significant long-term health condition
Common questions
Can a pharmacist help with a cold?
Yes. Under the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme our pharmacist can ask about your symptoms, check nothing else is going on, and advise on what will ease them — including NHS treatment where suitable.
Will antibiotics help?
No. Colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics only work against bacterial infections. They won't help a cold and can cause side effects. Our pharmacist can suggest things that will ease your symptoms instead.
How long does a cold last?
Most people recover within about 1–2 weeks. A cough can last longer than the other symptoms. If you're not improving, or you're worried, speak to our pharmacist or your GP.
How much does it cost?
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist can treat you under the scheme, any NHS prescription charge that applies is the same as it would be at your GP — and free if you don't normally pay for prescriptions.
Do I need an appointment?
No — walk-ins are welcome during opening hours. If you'd rather have a set time, call us on 01480 425412 and we'll schedule one for you.
Is the consultation private?
Yes. Any consultation takes place in our private consultation room, and anything you discuss stays confidential.
Other minor ailments we can help with
Constipation
Advice and NHS treatment for constipation from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
Learn more about constipationConjunctivitis
Advice and NHS treatment for conjunctivitis (pink eye) from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
Learn more about conjunctivitisCough
Advice and NHS treatment for coughs from our pharmacist — walk in or call to arrange a time.
Learn more about coughGet sorted, sooner.
Walk in and ask for the pharmacist, or call us to arrange a time — free NHS advice and treatment under the Minor Ailments Scheme.